Session 4: Longing for the Kingdom of God

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Prepare:

In today’s session, we will turn our attention to the world around us, focusing on our longing for the justice and mercy of the kingdom of God.

As you prepare to enter into prayer, take a moment to call to mind the events that concern you - in the world, in your country, in your community. Clasp your hands together as you recall situations of injustice, oppression, or disrespect for human beings or for the earth, God’s creation. Place your hands in your lap and slowly open them, imagining that you offer these longings to God, who holds them together with you.

2:39

Introduction of Scripture:

In today’s Scripture we will hear the beginning of the Sermon on the Mount, which opens with Jesus’s proclamation of the Beatitudes. Let’s listen together.

Scripture: Matthew 5: 1-10

When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain; and after he sat down, his disciples came to him. Then he began to speak, and taught them, saying:

‘Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

‘Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.

‘Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.

‘Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.

‘Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy.

‘Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.

‘Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.

‘Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.'

5:03

Pondering the Scripture:

Place yourself here, among the disciples on the mountain, awaiting a word from Jesus. What is your response to the Beatitudes? Are you surprised, or perhaps encouraged, or even uncomfortable?

As you reflect on the Beatitudes, is there a particular one you hold closely? Perhaps you count yourself among those who mourn, or among the poor in spirit? Perhaps those who are merciful, or among those who make peace in our world?

If one thing ties the Beatitudes together, it is longing, longing for the kingdom of God - a world of which we see glimmers, but which is not yet present here on earth in its fullness. Listen to the longing in the Beatitude, “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,” and let yourself enter into it, carrying with you all of the concerns you called to mind as we prepared to begin our prayer.

9:22

Talk to God:

Imagine that you are speaking with a member of the Trinity about your longing for the kingdom of God. Share openly about the things that break your heart, the things you most deeply desire to see set to right. Imagine God’s soft gaze upon you as you voice your concerns.

Imagine now that God is inviting you to partner in the work of bringing about the kingdom of God, a holy endeavor of co-creation. Where do you find your place in this work, no matter how great or small?

As you continue your conversation with God, allow peace to build within you, like water brimming over the top of a cup. Be assured that even as you go about the work of the kingdom of God, you also carry the kingdom of God within you. Inhale and exhale as you remember that God is always as close as your next breath, accompanying you, and sharing your longing for the kingdom of God.

15:52

Closing Prayer:

You have given all to me

To you, Lord, I return it

Everything is Yours, do with what You will

Give me only Your love and Your grace

That is enough for me.

Amen.